TikTok Takes On Trump

The Chinese operated app plans to sue the Trump administration.

TikTok plans to launch a legal battle in response to President Donald Trump’s latest executive order earlier this month that gave ByteDance, the app’s Chinese parent company, 90 days to divest U.S. assets, Reuters reported. 

“To ensure that the rule of law prevails and that our company and users are treated fairly, we have no choice but to challenge the Executive Order through the judicial system,” TikTok said in a statement.

Trump’s executive order on August 14th came in response to fears over poor security and privacy in the TikTok app. Large companies like Amazon and Wells Fargo responded to national fears by asking employees to delete the app from their phones. Amazon later retracted its company order and cited it as an internal memo error. 

Bill Gates and Microsoft expressed interest in buying TikTok’s American operations earlier this month. Trump supported Microsoft’s interest, noting that if a deal was reached the U.S. government should receive a “substantial portion” of the proceeds. 

The Chinese operated app is not the only social platform the Trump Administration has expressed security concerns with. WeChat, a Chinese operated messaging app, was also subject to executive action similar to Trump’s order on TikTok. 

TikTok has become a cultural sensation all around the world, especially in the U.S.. But with tensions running high, TikTok stars are at risk of losing access to their claim to fame.  Stars like Addison Rae, Charli D’Amelio, Dixie D’Amelio and Loren Gray have made millions of dollars by posting musical videos on the app. 

 

Discover More